Work Permit Documents

Law Office of Kalina & Tejpal · Updated October 6, 2026

There is no single document list for every Canadian work permit. Identify the permit category, where you are applying, your current status and any employer obligations before gathering documents. An office preparation checklist does not replace IRCC’s program-specific requirements.

Employer-specific permits

IRCC’s employer-specific permit guidance explains that an employer must take the required steps before the application. Depending on the category, supporting documents may include the employment contract, a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment and associated documents, or an LMIA-exempt offer-of-employment number and the required exemption evidence. Check any special instructions rather than assuming a job offer alone is enough.

Open permits have different eligibility rules

An open work permit is available only in specified circumstances. It is not a general permit available to anyone who wishes to work in Canada. It normally does not require an employer’s LMIA or employer-specific offer submission, but evidence showing eligibility for the particular open-permit category is essential. Work or location restrictions may still apply.

Common document groups

An accepted passport or travel document and the identity information requested in the application.
The correct forms and complete answers about status, travel, employment and prior applications.
Employer documents and proof of qualifications for an employer-specific permit, or proof of eligibility for the applicable open-permit category.
Evidence of lawful status in the country of application where required.
Relevant relationship and accompanying-family documents if they apply.
Required photo or biometrics information, fee receipts and any medical, police or other documents requested by the applicable checklist.

Avoid universal supporting-document assumptions

IRCC’s outside-Canada work-permit guide distinguishes the main document groups and situation-specific requirements. The old list should not be read as requiring property deeds, pension records, references from every past employer or police certificates from every country for the last ten years in every application. Supporting financial or employment evidence should address the actual category and questions asked.

Photo instructions depend on the route and biometrics requirements; do not assume two printed passport photos are always required. Medical exams, police certificates, Quebec requirements and translations must be assessed under the applicable instructions.

Application location and permission to work

Inside-Canada, outside-Canada, extension and port-of-entry applications have different eligibility rules. Do not assume that travelling to the border is an available shortcut, or that filing an application automatically authorizes work. Existing permit conditions and any maintained-status or restoration questions require separate analysis.

Prepare the documents securely

Check consistency of names, dates, passport validity, employment terms and immigration history. Explain missing documents as the instructions require. Arrange a secure method with the office for identity, financial and family information; do not send a complete private file through the website inquiry form.

Speak with counsel

Contact the Law Office of Kalina & Tejpal or call 416-900-6999 to discuss the appropriate application and supporting evidence.

This article provides general information only, not legal advice. Follow the current official checklist and any instructions issued for your application.